Every month, we celebrate an Achiever who has shown incredible growth, perseverance, and dedication to their goals. This month, we are proud to spotlight Mari*, a 3rd grader who has spent this past year doing something most people take years to figure out: walking directly toward the things that scare her.

At the top of a rock-climbing wall, nine-year-old Mari discovered something important about herself: she could feel afraid and keep going anyway.

Mari has been part of Friends of the Children–Boston for three years. This school year, she and her Friend (professional mentor), Arlene, focused on helping Mari move beyond her comfort zone and into what they call her "growth zone."

Mari began looking for opportunities to challenge herself. Although public speaking doesn't come naturally to her, she practiced speaking in front of her classmates and proudly presented a book she wrote at her school's Scholastic Book Fair.

She also faced her fear of heights at a rock-climbing gym. Mari refused to leave until she had reached the top, relying on her harness, Arlene's encouragement, and her own determination.

"At the beginning, I was scared. But I was able to overcome it because I went slowly, and when I felt safe with the harness, I was able to come down."

The courage Mari developed did not stay at the climbing gym. During a visit to a trampoline park, Mari wanted to go down the biggest slide but worried that she might fall or get hurt. Arlene reminded her that she had already been brave, and that she could be brave again. Mari shared: "I went down the big slide, and I liked it. Then I did it again."

For Arlene, one of the most meaningful parts of Mari's growth is seeing her recognize new challenges on her own.

"She no longer waits for me to suggest a challenge. She identifies them herself," Arlene said. "That independence is one of the things I am most proud of."

Mari brings that same courage together with kindness, curiosity, and empathy. She often asks others if they need help and offers encouragement when someone is struggling. She also loves telling Arlene about her day, playing red light, green light at the park, and eating the pupusas her mom makes.

This summer, Mari is working toward another goal: learning to ride a bike without training wheels. Someday, she hopes to become a teacher or mentor so she can help children learn multiplication.

Mari's courage is her own. Having a consistent, caring adult beside her has helped her recognize it, practice it, and carry it into new parts of her life.

Your support makes relationships like Mari and Arlene's possible for more Achievers across Boston!

*Name changed to protect privacy.